Our member James Battison is restoring MTB 208 at Port Hampton - the site of the Thorneycroft works. It is 75 years since she was originally launched, so James has invited CFVA members to visit on 12th August. If you come by car, there is a car park on the Lower Sunbury Road; if you travel by train, come to Hampton Court Station - there is a jetty where I can collect you by boat and take you to Port Hampton. Let James or me know if you intend coming.

Just spotted this last, pity I am working that day but what a great offer, be great if possible to see some pics of her...I have made contact before here, was at the traditional boat festival but missed CFV stand as you were there on Sunday?, I also think I am due to pay my subs, but have no postal address for a cheque, if you could revert that would be great....best to all,

We're celebrating this boat's 75th birthday this weekend. I attach photos of the boat - under restoration - with its proud owner James. The beer-can was given to James's grandfather who served on board HMS Vanguard during the Royal visit to Australia.

It's great to see that MTB 208 is still floating and is currently being restored. In the mid-sixties my father bought MTB 208 for £500 and had it towed from Chichester on the South coast to Teddington where it was dry docked. He cleaned and painted the hull then had it towed to D'Oyly Carte Island on the Thames at Weybridge and renamed it Hotspur, where my family lived on it for 18 months. I heard later that it had been bought by a wealthy man and taken to the South of France to be converted into a luxury yacht but I have no confirmation of this. I'm glad that it is being restored and will be preserved as it is such a beautiful vessel. The best of luck in your wonderful project.

Our member James Battison is restoring MTB 208 at Port Hampton - the site of the Thorneycroft works. It is 75 years since she was originally launched, so James has invited CFVA members to visit on 12th August. If you come by car, there is a car park on the Lower Sunbury Road; if you travel by train, come to Hampton Court Station - there is a jetty where I can collect you by boat and take you to Port Hampton. Let James or me know if you intend coming.

Hello, I am hoping to get in touch with James Battison about MTB 208 please. It is about a media enquiry, any help would be appreciated.